Posted by ESPN.com's James Walker
The Cleveland Browns opened their three-day minicamp today. Here are a few observations from the morning practice:
- Backup quarterback Brady Quinn had some nice throws and even showed an unexpected burst of speed today. On a broken play, Quinn sprinted past linebacker Leon Williams and showed good separation for a long gain. The play was impressive enough for defensive teammate Willie McGinest to scream, "I see you Quinn!"
- The toughest first day of minicamp went to receiver Josh Cribbs. The special teams ace had trouble catching passes with three drops in the morning session.
- Players absent from minicamp were receiver Donte' Stallworth and cornerback Brandon McDonald. Both players had deaths in the family. Receiver Joe Jurevicius was at the facility rehabbing from offseason knee surgery and a staph infection.
"Joe is here every day,'" Browns coach Romeo Crennel said. "He's rehabbing, he works in the pool, he works on the machine and he's making improvements. When he's able to get on the field, we'll put him on the field.'"
- Tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. (knee) returned to the Browns but didn't participate in team drills. Cornerback Gary Baxter (knees) also was back on the field Tuesday but was limited to individual work.
- Today's news of LeCharles Bentley being cleared to return to the team can only help. It is unknown where Bentley could contribute, but he could provide depth on the offensive line at the center and guard positions.
"We tried to build an offensive line, and if he can be a part of it, obviously it helps us," said Browns general manager Phil Savage. "If he can't, obviously the team moves on."
